For a long time the Burnhams were considered the most desirable villages in that glorious corner of north-west Norfolk. But in recent years we have been hearing more and more about the villages tucked just a few miles south – the Creakes, and the triangle that takes in Syderstone and Docking.
This beautiful part of the county nestles below the stretch of coastline that has the remarkable Scolt Head Island. Head west towards the Royal estate at Sandringham, and east to the town – and racecourse – of Fakenham. The countryside here rolls, with huge skies above, and the sense of coast and country in close proximity. It is easy to understand why property is sought after in this area.
The Creakes and neighbouring villages have their share of £500,000 to £1 million properties – converted barns, farmhouses and homes with fantastic rural views and space to breathe. There are also some enticing buys with lower price tags, including newer builds. The typical style here is flint and red brick, such an appealing design and one which makes these villages pretty to visit too.
This area is rich in history – two Roman roads have been discovered running through South Creake; the Iron Age fort at Bloodgate Hill would have commanded a great view across the countryside and out to the sea; the impressive church of St Mary at South Creake speaks of a time when this was a rich and more populous community.
Just outside the village of North Creake – which belongs to the estate of Earl Spencer, brother of Diana, Princess of Wales - are the atmospheric ruins of Creake Abbey, a monastic complex dating from the 13th Century. Beside these today is the Creake Abbey Cafe, Food Hall and Courtyard boutique shops, which is also home to a popular Farmers’ Market (next on Saturday, November 1 and December 6, 9.30am to 1pm).
Facilities in the Creakes are less than in years gone by, but the villages are just a few miles from the shopping centre of Fakenham, as well as the towns of Hunstanton and King’s Lynn further west. And the sense of community in these villages remains important, with clubs for sports and drama as well as this being the home of The Yorke Trust, which has just marked 30 years of promoting the arts and music. A sustained fundraising campaign through the past decade has seen the huge achievement this year of building a new South Creake Memorial Pavilion, which will be a hub for those living in and moving to this delightful area.
